Antoinette Sithole‑UGO Fellowship 2026 Launch | Honouring the Youth of 1976

The Antoinette Sithole‑UGO Fellowship 2026 Cohort was officially launched in partnership with the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) as part of South Africa’s year‑long commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the youth of 1976. This Fellowship honours Mme Antoinette Sithole, elder sister of Hector Pieterson, whose tragic death on June 16, 1976, during the Soweto Uprising became a defining moment in South Africa’s liberation struggle. Antoinette herself was present that day and appeared in the iconic photograph that carried Hector’s body into global consciousness. Today, she continues to serve as a storyteller, historian, and advocate for education, ensuring that the courage and solidarity of 1976 remain alive for future generations. The Fellowship is not about waiting for the future; it is about unleashing leaders today. Delegates are called to confront the Green Economy challenge, drive sustainable development and climate action, and build stronger relationships with peers across Africa. This launch marks a new chapter in youth leadership, Pan‑African unity, and sustainability — building on the courage of 1976 to shape the Africa we want. #UGOFellowship2026 #YouthOf1976 #50YearsOfCourage #ClimateAction #SustainableDevelopment #DIRCO #LeadershipUnleashed #AfricaWeWant #AntoinetteSithole